Those most affected are the tens of thousands of pupils that are currently halfway through their GCSE course. Despite having already worked towards these targets their work will no longer contribute to their final mark, although it will still be presented next to their overall grade on certificates.

Ofqual ran a consultation this summer after the grading chaos of last year, presenting a variety of options to 1,000 respondents, mainly schools and colleges. More than 90% of those surveyed rejected these options entirely, including the decision Ofqual eventually went with. Those who responded argued that this could be particularly detrimental to disadvantaged students or those with special needs.

There has been plenty of uproar about moving goal posts in response to the news on Twitter.

@Chris_Newman91 said: "Yet again the goal posts are moved for students half way through their GCSEs." And @jlhtwts agrees: "Really disappointing they couldn't implement this for 2015 testing. Turbulence this year? A crash for June 14 Eng grades."

@MsEnglish1515 defended the speaking and listening aspect of the exam: "For some, these S&L activities have been proud moments, huge hurdles to overcome, only for their grades to become worthless."

Whereas @missrlloyd was most annoyed by the consultation process: "Astounded they had the gall to publish consultation document showing huge rejection of proposals and ignored it entirely!"

Not everyone was sympathetic, however. @WilliamY95 tweeted "Speaking and listening not to count towards GCSE English anymore. Ouch - looks like those easy marks are gone!"

Are you an English teacher in charge of classes affected by this? Has Ofqual made the right choice in terms of fairness if marks were being fluffed? And how do you think the move will affect students? Share your opinion with us in the comments below.